Women resort to using cow dung during monthly period

The high cost of sanitary pads in Zimbabwe has reportedly forced some rural women to resort to using dried cow dung during their monthly period.

The shocking revelation came out during a the inaugural Menstrual Hygiene Day held by the Ministry of Health at Seke communal lands.

Google Maps: ZimbabweThe women indicated that they use things like tree leaves, pieces of cloth and even fresh grass to save themselves from the embarrassment of soiling themselves in public.

A coalition of international and national organisations observed the country's first-ever Menstrual Hygiene Day on May 28.

The campaign is supported by more than 130 partners worldwide, coming together from social businesses, non-governmental organisations, advocates, campaigns and dedicated individuals.

Young girls speaking at the inaugural function which ran under the theme "Menstruation is Natural" explained that they have to miss school every-time they have their period as they can not afford the sanitary pads.

File Photo: SchoolgirlsSome girls claimed that their schools did not have adequate toilet facilities for them to use as they share with boys and some of the toilets don't have doors making it difficult for them to use the facilities during their period.